Condensation in aftermarket Tail lights

[Michaelr]

My wife has a set of aftermarket tail lights in her PT Cruiser and gets condensation in them. I was wondering if this is common problem in plastic tail lights. I would like to know how you get rid of it.
regards Michaelr

[rangrov]

I have just done one on my 300c, take the whole lamp out remove bulb holders, take it in the house place at the side of a dehumidifier,,,,, if you have one,,,, if not stand over a houshold radiator with it heated,,,, or get the wifes hair dryer and on a hot setting warm the lamp up inside and out till there is no condensation,,,,, check that there is no water lying in the bottom of the lamp, if so drill with an 1/8th drill 2 small holes into the bottom black plastic not the outside were you will see it. let it drain then warm it up till bone dry, then get some water proof silicone the type used for showers etc and run a bead round the entire lamp, hey presto no more condensation. IT WORKS FOR ME........ PS YOU DO NOT HAVE TO SILICONE THE BASE OF THE LAMP..........

[Michaelr]

Thanks for the tip rangrov. I will definitely give that a go.
regards Michaelr

[wantit]

exactly what rangrov said. I have the sonar led tails, and had the condensation issue. don't be afraid to use the silicone, seal all seams and anywhere you think moisture can enter. use the clear stuff, and just be sure the insides are dry before reinstalling. you will have no more problems.

[DYNAMITE44]

exactly what they said, but also keep in mind that with some cheap aftermarket tail lights, the sockets they use to retain the bulbs aren't the greatest. after a mud run with the jeep, i found that the bulb socket was the problem. it was easy to spot because there was mud inside the tail light around the bulb. the sockets might be something to check, but i'd advise against siliconing them into place. in the event that one of the bulbs burns out, you'll have a fun time trying to get it out. you might want to try a little bulb grease, avaliable at most auto parts stores.